Boorowa Central School

Careers 

What’s Coming Up in Careers at Boorowa Central

ROUNDS Visit 19 May- Year 9 to 12 students

Rural Organisation of the University of Notre Dame Sydney (ROUNDS) is an organisation that is all about promoting rural healthcare and awareness of Indigenous health issues. ROUNDS representatives will conduct an incursion to speak to current students about pursuing a career in healthcare, with some interactive activities (involving plaster, x-rays, etc.). There will also be members of ROUNDS, specifically medical and nursing students, who have an interest in Rural Health and want to provide insight into potential pathways into the medical field. 

 

Career Spotlight: 

 Allied Health – Helping Others Through Science and Care

This week, we’re highlighting Allied Health – a fast-growing and rewarding career area that plays a vital role in supporting people’s health and wellbeing. Allied health professionals work alongside doctors and nurses, helping patients recover from illness or injury, improve mobility, and manage chronic conditions.

What is Allied Health? Allied health includes a wide range of professions that focus on preventative care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. These roles are in high demand across Australia, particularly in rural and regional areas like the Hilltops.

Common Allied Health Careers & Specialties

Physiotherapist Helps people restore movement and function after injury, surgery, or illness. Specialties include:

  • Sports Physiotherapy (athletes and injury recovery)
  • Neurological Physiotherapy (stroke, MS, Parkinson’s)
  • Paediatric Physiotherapy (children’s movement and development)

Occupational Therapist (OT) Supports people to improve their ability to complete everyday tasks at home, school, or work. Specialties include:

  • Mental Health OT (supporting independence and wellbeing)
  • Paediatric OT (supporting children’s sensory and motor skills)
  • Rehabilitation OT (recovery after injury or surgery)

Speech Pathologist Works with people who have communication, speech, language, or swallowing difficulties. Specialties include:

  • Paediatric Speech Therapy (speech delays, autism)Adult Rehabilitation (stroke recovery, brain injury)
  • Voice Therapy (teachers, singers, public speakers)

Podiatrist Diagnoses and treats foot, ankle, and lower limb issues. Specialties include:

  • Sports Podiatry (injury prevention and performance)
  • Diabetic Foot Care (managing complications)
  • Paediatric Podiatry (developmental issues in children)

Dietitian/Nutritionist Provides advice on nutrition, health, and managing medical conditions through diet. Specialties include:

  • Clinical Dietetics (hospitals and chronic conditions)
  • Sports Nutrition (athlete performance)
  • Community Nutrition (public health education)

Medical Imaging Technologist Uses medical imaging (X-rays, CT, MRI, Ultrasound and Nuclear Medicine) to assist with diagnosis and treatment. Specialties include:

  • Radiographer- X-rays and CT
  • Radiation Therapist- treating cancer patients 
  • Nuclear Medicine Technician- diagnostic physiological imaging using radioactive pharmaceuticals
  • Sonographer- uses ultrasounds to as a diagnostic tool, fetal ultrasound

🏃 Exercise Physiologist Designs and delivers exercise programs for health, injury recovery, and chronic disease management. Specialties include:

  • Cardiac Rehabilitation
  • Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
  • Strength & Conditioning for athletic performance

 

How to Get Into Allied Health

  • Most allied health roles require a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g. Bachelor of Physiotherapy, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy).
  • Entry-level roles such as Allied Health Assistant can begin with Certificate III/IV in Allied Health Assistance (TAFE NSW).
  • Subjects like Biology, PDHPE, and Chemistry are recommended for students planning to enter health fields.
  • School-Based Traineeships (SBATs) in health support areas can provide a great head start and practical experience while completing the HSC.

Why Choose Allied Health?

  • Strong job growth, especially in rural and regional NSW
  • Flexible career options across hospitals, aged care, schools, private clinics, and community health
  • A meaningful and people-focused career helping others improve their quality of life

If you're passionate about health, enjoy science, and want to work directly with people, Allied Health could be the perfect career path for you. Speak to the Careers Adviser to explore course options, university prerequisites, and local opportunities.